2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1990 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1990 Mazda RX-7. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 520 kg more than 1990 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Mazda RX-7 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1990 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda RX-7. (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda RX-7. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1990 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1990 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 1990 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2440 mm |
